Mathematics was not invented by a single person but developed over millennia across various ancient cultures. The earliest mathematical concepts arose independently in civilizations such as the Sumerians (around 3000 BCE), Egyptians, Babylonians, Chinese, Greeks, Indians, and Persians. These cultures contributed foundational ideas including counting systems, geometry, algebra, and the concept of zero. The ancient Greek mathematician Archimedes is often called the "Father of Mathematics" for his profound contributions to geometry, calculus precursors, and mathematical physics. Other significant figures include Euclid, known as the "Father of Geometry," Aryabhata for work on zero and trigonometry, and Al-Khwarizmi, the "Father of Algebra." Mathematics evolved through the combined efforts of these and many others, becoming the broad and rigorous discipline known today.